Gals Guide – Womens Guide to Buying Cars
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On the Road
Before you drive off, the seller must provide you with a valid V5 form which you and they should sign. You should complete your personal details on the V5 and this has to be forwarded to the DVLA who register the change of ownership. You should keep hold of the second page of the V5 which has a slip to enable you to road tax the car if it is not taxed
If the car is over 36 months old it must have a current MOT certificate. If they don't provide both of these – don't buy the car.
You should not drive your new car on the public highway unless it has a current road fund licence and the car is covered by insurance.
We strongly advise that you buy from companies that provide a history report (HPI). You'll also make your life easier if you look out for sellers who collect all this paperwork together for you.
Handy Hint!
Fraudsters are always waiting for their next victim to pounce on. Don't let it be you – have your wits about you when buying a used car online through a private seller.
Insurance and Tax
You'll need insurance to start driving your new car. Get two or three quotes from major insurance providers like RAC and companies for women, like Sheila's Wheels.
Some companies, like www.carsite.co.uk, will give you a free 7 day Norwich Union Insurance offer, so you can drive your car straight away. Find out more about NU Insurance offers on their website.
You can sort out your tax at a local post office as long as you have your section of V5 and MOT certificates. All you have to do is to fill in a short form on the V5 and, make the payment at the nearest post office that provides tax discs and you'll get your new tax disc there and then.
For more information about how to apply – check out the Post Office website
Finally … collection should be just that. Don't let a salesman use it as an excuse to make more money out of you. Look for places that have a ‘No Sales Pressure’ policy.
It can be very risky to view a car in the street, car park or owner's home. Look for professional companies that have their own branded handover centres where all cars are locked up securely for collection.
